When Is Passover 2026?
Passover 2026 begins at sundown on Wednesday 1 April 2026 and ends at nightfall on Thursday 9 April 2026 for most Jewish communities outside Israel. In Israel, Passover is observed for seven days, ending on Wednesday 8 April 2026.
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As with all Jewish festivals, Passover starts in the evening rather than the morning.
What Is Passover?
Passover, known in Hebrew as Pesach, is a major Jewish festival that commemorates the Exodus of the Israelites from slavery in ancient Egypt. It is one of the most widely observed Jewish holidays and focuses on themes of freedom, remembrance, and faith.
The festival includes special meals called Seders, the reading of the Haggadah, and the avoidance of leavened foods.
Why Does the Date of Passover Change Each Year?
Passover is determined by the Hebrew calendar, which is lunisolar rather than purely solar. The holiday begins on the 15th day of the Hebrew month of Nisan, which usually falls in March or April on the Gregorian calendar.
Because the Hebrew calendar does not align exactly with the Gregorian calendar, the date of Passover changes each year.
How Long Does Passover Last?
The length of Passover depends on location:
- Outside Israel: 8 days (1–9 April 2026)
- In Israel: 7 days (1–8 April 2026)
The first and last days are typically observed as major holy days, with work restrictions for many observers.
Key Traditions During Passover
Common Passover traditions include:
- Attending a Passover Seder
- Eating matzah instead of bread
- Avoiding leavened foods
- Retelling the story of the Exodus
- Spending time with family and community
These traditions are central to the meaning of the festival.
Final Thoughts
Passover 2026 begins at sundown on Wednesday 1 April and concludes in early April, making it a spring festival that changes date each year. Because it follows the Hebrew calendar and starts in the evening, checking the exact dates in advance is always important for planning.
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When is Passover 2026? Find the exact dates, how long Passover lasts, why the date changes each year, and how it is traditionally observed.